Sicilian Riformisti

The Riformisti was a faction of liberal politicians in the Two Sicilies that existed during the mid-nineteenth century. The Riformisti supported the liberalization of the country and the reduction of the powers of the absolute monarchy; the Riformisti sought to create a free market economy, open Sicily up to foreign trade, ensure religious freedom, allow for a degree of immigration, and to reduce military spending. The Riformisti therefore posed a major threat to the conservative government, and they were the primary agents of liberal nationalism in the country. The party received widespread support among the educated classes of society due to the formation of liberal clubs in the country, and the Age of Liberalism led to liberal agitation growing. The Riformisti would be kept out of the government by the Moderati, who dominated politics in the country for nearly all of its existence. The Riformisti dissolved in 1861 after Italy annexed the Two Sicilies.